DeBoer was fired as coach of the Panthers after the 2010-11 season. In 246 games with the Panthers, his record was 103-107-36 and failed to make the playoffs each of his three seasons in Florida.

The new leader of the club has high expectations for his new team, but wouldn't say exactly how many points the Devils would achieve next season, or who would be the team's captain but he did say: "Obviously we want to be back in the playoffs. Having seen them a few times in the second half of the year, they played very well."

General manager Lou Lamoriello and the Devils front office are excited about the hire, but there are mixed reviews among NJ.com readers:

Lived in FL until 2010, saw a lot of Panthers hockey. Was always impressed with the team DeBoer put on the ice; competitive, good work ethic. Though the Panthers didn't win a lot, teams had to work to beat them. Fielding a .500 record with the Panthers team that truly lacked talent (and financial support) is a huge plus for this guy. Frankly, I'm excited to have him.

The guy is a young and promising coach who has had success at different levels. He's a smart guy and has coaching experience on the NHL level. He had a winning record for the Panthers his first year, even though they didnt make the playoffs. His teams have had ZERO talent and rid of anything close to a talented player was traded away. How in the world can anyone rip this hiring apart? He is familiar with the Devils system, he has worked with some of the players and Lamoriello knows him...so what's the problem??? Give the guy a shot!